Pongamia

Description

Pongamia, also known as Millettia pinnata, is a medium-sized evergreen tree belonging to the pea family. It is native to Asia and Australia and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. The tree can grow up to 40 feet tall and has a broad, spreading crown. Pongamia is known for its nitrogen-fixing ability, which makes it an important plant in agroforestry and reforestation projects.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Pongamia tree has dark green, glossy leaves that are pinnately compound and alternate. The flowers are small and white with a sweet fragrance. The tree produces a long, slender pod that contains seeds. The seeds are round and flat, with a hard outer shell and a whitish kernel inside. The wood of the Pongamia tree is hard and durable and is used for making furniture, boats, and tools.

Care Guide

Pongamia is a hardy tree that requires minimal care. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey, but prefers well-drained soil. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during the first few years of growth. Fertilization is not required, but applying a balanced fertilizer can promote faster growth. Pongamia prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pongamia is relatively pest-resistant but can be susceptible to leaf-eating caterpillars and mealybugs. The tree can also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. These can be treated with fungicides and insecticides, respectively.

Habitat

Pongamia is native to Asia and Australia and is found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly grown in agroforestry and reforestation projects due to its nitrogen-fixing ability. The tree can also be found in parks and gardens as an ornamental plant.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Pongamia be grown in pots?
A: Yes, Pongamia can be grown in pots, but it may not reach its full potential in terms of size.

Q: Is Pongamia a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Pongamia has a broad, spreading crown and can provide good shade.

Q: How long does it take for Pongamia to produce seeds?
A: Pongamia can start producing seeds in 3-4 years, but it may take up to 7 years for the tree to reach full seed production.

Q: Can Pongamia be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, Pongamia has a deep root system that can help prevent soil erosion.

Related Plants

• Millettia grandis
• Millettia stuhlmannii
• Millettia leucantha
• Millettia pachycarpa

References

• “Millettia pinnata.” Floridata.
• “Millettia pinnata.” World Agroforestry Centre.
• “Millettia pinnata.” Agroforestry Tree Database.